How to Navigate HOA for Holiday Decorations

Most everyone loves a colorfully lit neighborhood during the holidays. Newspapers and camera crews even tout and promote community’s top streets for holiday lights. Unfortunately, not every neighborhood can deck the halls to their hearts content due to the CC&Rs of homeowner associations.

If you’re not familiar with covenants, conditions, and restrictions, that can be a good thing, meaning you probably aren’t bound by any. However it’s important to note that CC&Rs are generally meant to ensure the integrity, appearance, and value of a community.

If you are a part of a homeowner’s association, check the policies and restrictions before spending bundles on lights, inflatables, and rooftop reindeer. Depending on what your policy allows, talk with neighbors to see what’s generally allowed or appropriate.

If the policies are strict, consider making a case to the board. Be prepared – bring a proposal and be prepared to start small (a string of lights, elegant ornaments, wreaths). Offer specific suggestions, options, and a definitive time window (December 11 -26, for example). And be prepared for some disappointment. You may find that reining in your Griswold dreams may be worth it to keep the peace with the neighbors.